Zulfiya

Child's Birth Year
2022

State/Province/Territory
California

NICU Hospital for my journey
Children’s Hospital of Orange County

My NICU Graduate's Journey
Zulfiya was born at just 32 weeks, weighing only 2 pounds. The day she was born, we learned she would need life-saving surgery for her stomach and bowels. What followed were 120 days in the NICU, countless sleepless nights, and 8 surgeries before we could finally bring her home.

Today, Zulfiya is the happiest, most energetic, creative little 3-year-old. She spends her days drawing, painting, and creating little masterpieces everywhere she goes.

As she gets older, we tell her about her journey often. We remind her that every scar on her body tells a story of strength, resilience, and survival. Those scars are not something to hide they are part of the masterpiece that she is.

What makes you proud of your NICU graduate?
Zulfiya talks about her scars often and never tries to hide them. We’ve shared with her the stories of her NICU days, the surgeries she endured, and just how brave and strong she was from the very beginning. Instead of feeling ashamed, she carries her story with pride.

She happily shares her scars with others, and to her, they are simply part of who she is a beautiful reminder of everything she overcame. Watching her grow into such a confident, joyful, creative little girl after everything she’s been through is something we will never stop being proud of.

Weight at Birth (lbs. or Grams)
2 lbs

Weeks Gestation
32 weeks

Time spent in the NICU (Specify Number of Days, Months, or Years)
120 days